I inclose you a Copy of Colo. Preston's Letter, dated the 18th Septr. at Botetourt Courthouse Virginia, also a letter from Genl. Davidson & one from Colo. Davie. Colo. Armstrong arriv'd in Camp last evening with a Troop of Horse from Virginia; they move on this morning to join Genl. Davidson & Colo. Davie. We have some accounts of the Tories imbodying in Surry County, in the fork of the Yadkin river, & had actually killed one Hedgspeth, the Sheriff of the County. Colo. Armstrong has heard nothing of this matter, as he left Surry Saturday last; & this rising to imbody began on Sunday. Colo. Armstrong informs me that he expects there is by this three troops of Horse arrived there from Virginia. We are very desirous to see you; your arrival would give great spirit to the Army, & no doubt prevent the inhabitants from moving in such crouds. I am satisfied with your order to support & not abandon this pass or ford; but, Sir, the extent of Country between this & Charlotte is too great & rich to remain here if the Army had formed a junction; neither do I so much expect that this ford will be the Enemy's object in preference to the Shallow ford about 30 or 35 miles up this river; McKnitts road leading from Charlotte, I am informed, leads directly to the Shallow ford, from thence to the Moravian towns. This road, I apprehend, the 800 & two field pieces were on when Colo. Taylor discovered them; so that either of these roads may be made use of in passing this river, yet I think it highly necessary that some works of defense should be made on the Bank of this ford; but, Sir, we have no tools to effect such defense from the earth, but a few Axes. I wish to receive some instructions respecting those who are sent to me as prisoners, that have been taken at their farms, having received protection from the Enemy & taken paroles. Genl. Butler has not yet joined me, nor have I heard of his being on his march, neither have I heard of the Virginians.

I am, Sir, Yr. Obdt. Servt.,

JETHRO SUMMER.

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P. S. I am desirous, Sir, you would write to me respecting what I mentioned to you in my last concerning the Brigade & myself.